Valeri Nichushkin of the Colorado Avalanche Enters NHL Player Assistance Program, Will Miss Series vs. Dallas Stars

Monday, May 13th, 2024

Valeri Nichushkin, a forward for the Colorado Avalanche, has entered Stage 3 of the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program, leading to a six-month suspension without salary. The specific reasons for his entry into the program were not disclosed.

With Nichushkin temporarily out of play, the Avalanche saw the return of Jonathan Drouin from an injury. This adjustment came as the team was down 2-1 in their playoff series against the Dallas Stars.

The player assistance program includes four stages, with Stage 3 involving a six-month penalty for not adhering to the Stage 2 treatment plan. After this period, players have the opportunity to request reinstatement.

This marks the third time Nichushkin has been away from the Avalanche in the last 13 months. His previous absence began in mid-January due to undisclosed reasons, and he also missed the last five games of a first-round playoff series against the Seattle Kraken in April because of personal matters.

Since being selected in the first round by the Stars, Nichushkin transferred to the Avalanche in 2019, where he has played a significant role for the team.

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